In the film, Stiller played Tugg Speedman, an actor whose career had stalled after his portrayal of the developmentally disabled character Simple Jack, a performance Speedman was convinced would earn him critical acclaim and awards.

At the time the movie was released, several disability groups spoke out about the film, calling Stiller’s character “offensive” and “tasteless.”

Advertisement - story continues below

Stiller’s latest apology comes three days after Olympic gold medalist Shaun White dressed up as Simple Jack for Halloween.

Actually Tropic Thunder was boycotted 10 years ago when it came out, and I apologized then. It was always meant to make fun of actors trying to do anything to win awards. I stand by my apology, the movie, Shaun White, And the great people and work of the @SpecialOlympics. https://t.co/RqID5jIXP1

Did Shaun White deserve criticism for wearing this costume?

Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

You're logged in to Facebook. Click here to log out.

The snowboarder faced a backlash on social media for portraying the character. He eventually posted an apology on Twitter.

A spokesperson for the Special Olympics told TMZ, “We are truly disappointed that Shaun White, an acclaimed Olympian, would choose this costume which is so offensive and causes so much pain.”

Advertisement - story continues below

“Disability is not a joke nor should it be a punchline,” the organization said. “We hope that Shaun White and others learn that this just continues stigma, stereotypes and discrimination.”

One critic of White’s costume choice wrote in response to the athlete’s now-deleted Instagram post, “I’m not sure if it’s worse that this is an actual movie or that you’d think it’s okay to mock individuals who have disabilities. It’s 2018, man. #spreadthewordtoendtheword #rwordhurts.”

“I owe everyone in the Special Olympics community an apology for my poor choice of Halloween costume the other night,” he wrote.

“It was a last-minute decision,” he continued, “It was the wrong one. The Special Olympics were right to call me out on it. They do great work supporting so many tremendous athletes, and I am sorry for being insensitive. Lesson learned.”

Steven is a follower of Jesus, husband to an amazing wife, and a father to two beautiful girls. You can find him enjoying listening to or playing jazz piano, enjoying the Disney parks, or hiking the Arizona landscape.